Talk:Eric Clapton/Archive 3

One of the most influential...
Hi all

I have restored the sentence in the lead. It is not right that something with three references should be removed without discussion.

Please discuss here why the decisioon to remove this sentence was taken. Chaosdruid (talk) 14:44, 31 December 2010 (UTC)
 * Here, and not my talk page, is the proper forum for discussing the EC entry. My more-than-adequate but poorly read edit summaries already well-explained why the only one ref was removed, and why the others where dodgy. To restate: there were only two references in all; one dupe doesn't count, regardless, the RS source, made no such claim of "most influential and important" is thereby irrelevant and useless in that context, and a sub-headline, usually not written by an article's author is a dubious source, and a NYU professor proficient in post-modern academic English theory on modernism, but hardly an authority on guitarists, in fact reckoned Jimi and EC as the two most "influential rock solo guitarists." (They also where incredible rhythm players, and more than that, power trio players, something pretend erudites often overlook. And his nonsense about the "school of Chuck Berry makes this even more clear how bad an authority he is on guitarists). None of the sources say EC is one of the most "important" guitarists of all time: this POV has been deleted. My suspicion is that Meisel was cited ipso facto in a classic case of quote mining. Finally, and this is another restatement of an edit summary, sub-headlines are not citable unless qualified as such. Look at it this way, the citations used are

Weak. The Artist AKA Mr Anonymous (talk) 02:42, 1 January 2011 (UTC)
 * 1) one that says nothing about EC being the "most important an influential guitarists of all time"
 * 2) an English prof who didn't say so either
 * 3) a subheadline that makes the claim, but the relevant article doesn't
 * Far from weak. And Rolling Stone is not a "dodgy" source. If you don't like Clapton, that's fine. But don't remove a reliable source without consensus here. Cresix (talk) 03:47, 1 January 2011 (UTC)
 * I was aghast that I called RS a dodgy source, but my rereading of what I wrote settled me. To quote what the editor could not read though there it was " rm dupe [RS]ref, the other sources are dodgy and questionable, no citation for "immortals" claim provided yet." The Artist AKA Mr Anonymous (talk) 05:09, 1 January 2011 (UTC)
 * And RS is not a "dupe" source. I changed the edit to refer specifically to RS. The Artist, please don't edit war. Wait for a consensus here before removing the RS source again. Cresix (talk) 05:28, 1 January 2011 (UTC)
 * The RS source is good only for noting the 53rd designation, LS made the statement and needs to be both quoted and cited in the lead so the reader is not left with the mistaken impression that a RS editor or staff writer made the declaration. The greater honor is that a peer regarded EC as such. The Artist AKA Mr Anonymous (talk) 18:34, 1 January 2011 (UTC)

If consensus agrees with you, that's the way it will be. I'll remind you that there is no consensus of one person, and that edit warring (including three full or partial reverts within 24 hours) is policy violation. Cresix (talk) 19:00, 1 January 2011 (UTC)
 * The ANI page explicitly warns against carrying the 3RR dispute to this page. The hope is that for a change the substance of the dispute can be determined, though I have no idea what is is at issue since I have left the RS ref in and have correctly have cited it. I really have no idea what is currently being objected to in terms of content. The Artist AKA Mr Anonymous (talk) 19:23, 1 January 2011 (UTC)

There is no prohibition against asking an editor not to edit war on the talk page of an article in the context of a content dispute and after multiple reverts without consensus. And even more especially when warnings on the user's talk page are followed by continued reverts and a comment by the editor that he does not read the messages left on his talk page. As for "correctly citing it", providing correct citations does not negate the need for consensus. Read WP:CON. There is no consensus for your changes; the fact that you make them multiple times and claim to be right does not constitute a consensus. Cresix (talk) 19:43, 1 January 2011 (UTC)
 * I believe I was mistaken, though common sense would suggest discussing that this is not the place to discuss 3RR issues once it has made an ANI issue. Now, let's get past that. What is in dispute, content wise? The Artist AKA Mr Anonymous (talk) 20:09, 1 January 2011 (UTC)

We'll get past it if you will stop edit warring, acting without consensus, and making unnecessary threats. As for the content dispute, this version of the article is perfectly acceptable. You can disagree, but so far there is no consensus for your version, and two editors have expressed opposition to your version(s) of the article. Now, as is usually done on Wikipedia, let's see if other editors weigh in. If another editor who hasn't expressed an opinion changes the disputed material contrary to the way you wish it to be, I strongly suggest that you not make any changes. You have skated on very thin ice in your edit pattern on this article, and a 3RR report is still pending. So please, for your sake as well as the article's, don't make any more changes to the disputed content. Cresix (talk) 20:27, 1 January 2011 (UTC)
 * Unless told what content is in dispute, I'll presume nothing is, which is what I suspect at this point, and the current edit meets all concerns. The Artist AKA Mr Anonymous (talk) 20:58, 1 January 2011 (UTC)

Please stop creating a straw man to attack and divert attention from the real issue. If you can read, you can see the differences in the version of the article I linked and the latest version you created. And I'll kindly ask you to stop making false statements that "nothing is ... in dispute". You have demonstrated repeatedly that you don't care to follow the consensus process, and your post immediately above again confirms that. Now, if you have nothing additional to say about the dispute then say nothing, and don't make any more changes to the disputed material without consensus. 21:04, 1 January 2011 (UTC)


 * (ec)
 * Ones talk page is where editors leave messages which are required to be left, questions on actions/edits and pleasantries as well. It is normal that such messages are put there so that ones attention is drawn to it as soon as possible, especially in the case of something which would perhaps be best explained in more detail to the person in question. Discussing your actions/motives on this talk page would not be appropriate as they are not pertinent to the Eric Clapton article or its content.
 * As for the content in question the reason for this discussion being started is that there appeared to be clear support for inclusion of the statement, and its supporting refs, from at least four editors and one who was against it. Consensus can only be really achieved once the discussion is started and all parties involved agree upon what content and refs which should remain.
 * I can see that there has been discussion and that consensus seems to be met with the statements as they are now. Normal practice would be for the discussion to be completed before the statemnet was edited to follow consensus but as that seems to have been the result anyway I am fairly happy to discontinue my invovment in the process.
 * Please be aware that page ownership is an issue that must be avoided at all costs and in this case it seemd to me that Mr Anonymous choses to edit the page a great deal and was perhaps beginning to seem as if page ownershipp may have been an issue. If one cannot see that ones edits are against consensus then one has to look at ones motives and perhaps step back and choose to edit the topic less rather than more. It is all too easy to "defend" content to the point where one cannot see one is stepping into a bunker, putting on a hard hat and digging in for the duration.
 * If all are agreed that the content is now satisfactory, as I am, then I can assume the topic is closed for the present? Chaosdruid (talk) 21:02, 1 January 2011 (UTC)
 * What "Straw Man"? I didn't see one, seriously, but then again, it's not the only impenetrably vague objection I've had to deal with.
 * Unless told what content is in dispute, I'll presume nothing is, which is what I suspect at this point, and the current edit meets all concerns. Nowhere does that declare or note anything but a deafening silence. Now, there are some scoldings to address. (queue up "Do You Really Want To Hurt Me?")
 * Ones talk page is where editors leave messages which are required to be left. Nonsense: per WP:REMOVED Policy does not prohibit users, whether registered or anonymous users, from removing comments from their own talk pages. Hope that edifies at least two of you.
 * I can see that there has been discussion and that consensus seems to be met with the statements as they are now. Agreed. Makes you wonder what all the shouting is about.
 * Please be aware that page ownership is an issue that must be avoided at all costs. And motherhood is a really swell thing too :) The Artist AKA Mr Anonymous (talk) 21:29, 1 January 2011 (UTC)
 * Once again, you have created a straw man to divert away from the real issue; The Artist, that may be a common tactic for beginners on high school debate teams, but it doesn't fly here where people aren't as stupid as you might assume they are. No one has said you can't remove content from your talk page. What is especially problematic, however, are your false accusations of "harrassment" simply because an editor asks you not to edit war and responds to your messages. Now please drop this false issue or take to editors' talk pages. Cresix (talk) 21:50, 1 January 2011 (UTC)
 * If you can't understand the meaning and intent of Ones talk page is where editors leave messages which are required"" to be left.  [emphasis added] as an instruction to me to stop deleting some mandated posts from my talk page, we are at an impossible impasse. I don't know what would make you think I've judged you as "stupid", and I hope you are done putting words in my mouth. For the record, I believe you could exercise patience and eventually understand my arguments because I have made the clearly. Of course, you have no obligation to agree with them. As for Straw Men, imagined or not, they really hate it when they are ignored and usually go away. Muh bad. The Artist AKA Mr Anonymous (talk) 22:23, 1 January 2011 (UTC)

Chaosduid, I agree with most of your comments, but it is not true that "all are agreed" or that the "topic is closed". I oppose The Artist's edits, not to mention his editing tactics that you so accurately suggested assume ownership of the article. Thanks. Cresix (talk) 21:08, 1 January 2011 (UTC)
 * Sir, to the point, you've only expressed your sentiments, but none of the particulars. BTW, about that consensus flag you've been waving, Chaosduid just threw down with my last edit.  The Artist AKA Mr Anonymous (talk) 21:42, 1 January 2011 (UTC)
 * "Chaosduid just threw down with my last edit": And that does not create a consensus. Except, of course, your version of consensus in which all opposing opinions are simply ignored. Cresix (talk) 23:25, 1 January 2011 (UTC)
 * Yep, and do you have a point to make? The Artist AKA Mr Anonymous (talk) 23:40, 1 January 2011 (UTC)
 * "Yep": I'm glad you agree that there is no consensus. That was my main point in my comment about two lines up. But since you agree that no consensus has been achieved, that portion of the problem is solved. Cresix (talk) 23:54, 1 January 2011 (UTC)
 * You obviously misunderstood the phrasing I was using. "where editors leave messages which are required to be left"
 * There are some messages which have to be left on a users talkpage - notices of 3RR, ANI etc are required to be posted on the users talkpage. Whether the use wishes to delete them afterwards is up to them. Nonetheless editors are required to leave them there to notify the editor about such actions taking place. If I had use the phrase "where editors put messages there which are required to be put" it would perhaps not have clouded your perception? Chaosdruid (talk) 22:10, 1 January 2011 (UTC)
 * I see your point and appreciate the clarification.The Artist AKA Mr Anonymous (talk) 22:34, 1 January 2011 (UTC)

I have restored the encyclopaedic summary of the view given in several reliable sources. It is almost a truism to say that Clapton is regarded as one of the most important and influential guitarists - it's not really a statement that people are going to challenge, though it is appropriate that there are sources to refer to which support what is said. Using a single quote, and naming the person, makes it appear as though the view being quoted was somewhat exceptional, controversial, alternative, or particularly famous or notable. The view that Clapton is important and influential is a widespread and normal one, so that is what we should be saying. The quote itself was rather hyperbolic, and not quite appropriate for a sober and neutral encyclopaedia entry. I have also started a Legacy section, where views on Clapton's importance and influence can be properly explained.  SilkTork  *YES! 16:57, 15 January 2011 (UTC)
 * I agree, so this now is the consensus. Cresix (talk) 17:39, 15 January 2011 (UTC)

Wah should be in the lead
Clapton's revolutionary use of the wah-wah pedal is quite an important part of his legacy and contribution to music. He should have a sentence in the lead dedicated to that, and there should be a mention that Jimi Hendrix pioneered its use concurrently (Hendrix should be mentioned in the same sentence; the vice versa has been done in Hendrix's lead).Hoops gza (talk) 19:09, 5 January 2011 (UTC)
 * That may be true, but without a reliable source, it can't be stated. The Artist AKA Mr Anonymous (talk) 00:41, 6 January 2011 (UTC)


 * Hendrix's doesn't have a "reliable source" either, yet no one in their right mind or with an appreciable knowledge of music would deny that it is true. Clapton was not as important for the wah as Hendrix but he was using it in soloes in 1966 on Cream's debut album before Hendrix had even pressed a record.Hoops gza (talk) 01:34, 8 January 2011 (UTC)

It needs to be mentioned in the lead. It is a vital part of Clapton's biography.Hoops gza (talk) 01:35, 8 January 2011 (UTC)

Wow, could I get some feedback please?Hoops gza (talk) 18:41, 16 January 2011 (UTC)
 * You got some feedback. Provide a reliable source, or move on. And no excuses about Hendrix. Cresix (talk) 22:50, 16 January 2011 (UTC)

Incredibly funny but informative interview with EC
When looking for sources for another article I found this interview in two sections, and while hilarious, has quite a bit of detail. I hope something here (mostly trivia, though), might beIf you can use some of this, that's my hope- but also, may give you a short chuckle or more: Part 1: and Part 2:. This is from the Frank Skinner show, in May, 1999. --Leahtwosaints (talk) 19:01, 31 January 2011 (UTC)
 * No offense, but I found Skinner to be mildly amusing (although he was trying very hard to be hilarious). I didn't find it the least bit informative. But I wouldn't discourage anyone from watching; everyone has his own idea of humour and information. Cresix (talk) 01:05, 1 February 2011 (UTC)
 * So true! But inasfar as informative, it would appear tht at this early date, Clapton was already planning to set up the rehab which became funded by his pet projects: Crossroads Guitar Festivals, that manifested themselves in the mid-2000s. [shrug] --Leahtwosaints (talk) 01:23, 1 February 2011 (UTC)

Music on TV or movies
I suggest moving the section of Clapton's music to a page of it's own. --Leahtwosaints (talk) 07:36, 3 May 2011 (UTC)

I remember hearing three Eric Clapton songs over the entire Sopranos TV sreies. I'll have to go back and watch the whole of the Sopranos again I suppose. I get back to this. Eddie Punch (talk) 07:33, 6 April 2012 (UTC)

ERic is CBE
Hello, we know that eric is "CBE" Since he is "CBE" we can call him "Sir Eric Clapton" so, we can rename article, and call him sir eric clapton —Preceding unsigned comment added by 94.182.102.63 (talk) 17:20, 17 May 2011 (UTC)

I like how you make the change THEN ask if you can do it a minute later. Dougy05050 (talk) 08:19, 19 June 2011 (UTC)


 * And, for the record, the answer would have been No - CBE does not equate to a knighthood. -- Ian Dalziel (talk) 09:36, 19 June 2011 (UTC)
 * CBE = Commander of the British Empire. A knighthood is a KBE Eddie Punch (talk) 07:35, 6 April 2012 (UTC)

Thanks Ian. Good read. Dougy05050 (talk) 15:00, 19 June 2011 (UTC)

Guitars
Clapton played a black Fender Jazzmaster with the Yardbirds in 1964. — Preceding unsigned comment added by 98.82.125.29 (talk) 19:50, 1 August 2011 (UTC)
 * Yep, that is established in the article under the Guitars section here Srobak (talk) 20:51, 1 August 2011 (UTC)

Personal life
This article seems shockingly deficient in information regarding personal life -- one paragraph at the beginning about life before age 13, and one paragraph at the end discussing what football team he supports(!). I came to this from the article on Tears in Heaven, which DOES contain some germane personal information, to get additional background, but found nothing. Could someone knowledgable on the subject provide some help with this? — Preceding unsigned comment added by 96.251.199.65 (talk) 08:18, 11 January 2012 (UTC)

Conner's death
His son, Conner, died after falling 53 stories to his death. This is incredibly important and the basis to which he wrote "Tears in Heaven" and there is nothing about it on here?! This is even talked about in a couple episodes of "Rescue Me". So not only should someone, who is better at editing than myself, add in a Personal Section, but a Media section might also be helpful. — Preceding unsigned comment added by 173.15.30.125 (talk) 13:31, 17 January 2012 (UTC)
 * Have you read the 1990s section?-- ♫GoP♫ T C N 15:34, 19 January 2012 (UTC)

The 1990's section under 'career' isn't the most logical place for something so fundamentally personal. A 'personal life' section would be far more appropriate, although certainly the incident should be referenced under Career:1990's as the influence for Tears in Heaven. Responding 'Have you read the career section?'as though it should be obvious, to someone looking for a personal story on a site where the majority of celebrity articles have a 'personal life' section, is like responding 'Have you looked in the oven?' to someone who's asked where the milk is. — Preceding unsigned comment added by 60.242.102.75 (talk) 07:50, 30 June 2012 (UTC)
 * With all due respect I don't feel we need to separate a piece about his son's death from this section to create and merge the content into "Personal life". It is not his "personal life", but this son's. If you still believe it is in an incorrect location, then feel free to edit the article. Also I am not sure why you find my response illogical, but I answered to your claim "and there is nothing about it on here?!" (I am actually not quite sure whether you are the same person as the original poster). All these media hype, gossips, etc do not belong to an encyclopedia.-- GoP T C N 10:20, 30 June 2012 (UTC)

Eric Clapton 'Controversy over remarks on immigration' section
Attention required for section noted in above title, did he really say those things? Highly racially discriminate comments alleged to have been uttered by Clapton in the 70's, please address. — Preceding unsigned comment added by Mickeyray85 (talk • contribs) 14:06, 25 March 2012 (UTC)

Clapton has mentioned that he is not racist. But he maintains that Enoch Powell's 'river of blood' speech was courageous. These two facts seem incompatible to me. 2.27.68.115 (talk) 23:43, 22 August 2015 (UTC)

Separate aspects of personal life out of the career history?
A separate 'Personal life' section might help make the article easier to use. As it is, aspects of Clapton's personal life are scattered within the chronology of his career, which is detailed and extensive (as it should be for someone of this stature). His relationships, drugs/alcohol battle, the death of his son, religious conversion, etc. It would make things clearer if this info could be separate, but retained in the career history where it is relevant (such as the death of his son leading to Tears in Heaven).

As it is if you want to read about his personal life (say you want to know about his son's death but don't know when that happened), you must trawl through the lengthy career section and pick bits out. — Preceding unsigned comment added by 60.242.102.75 (talk) 07:43, 30 June 2012 (UTC)

Psychedelic rock?
Should psychedelic rock really be listed in Eric Clapton's genre/styles list? Cream was obviously one of the best and most prominent psychedelic bands of the time, but there's nothing in the rest of Clapton's career, which was much longer than Cream's existence, that comes close to that style. I guess what I'm asking is this: should the genres/styles of an artist who played in a band and had a prominent solo career include the important ones that he played in his entire career or just the solo career? Clapton could be an exception because he helped form our definition of a particular style (psychedelia), but it seems like a debatable point for other, less "revolutionary" artists who played a certain style for a decent amount of time, though the rest of their career had nothing to do with that genre. Krobertj (talk) 14:30, 7 July 2012 (UTC)

No mention to "Just one Night" album
Sorry if I missed something, but I don't see this, for me, important album of Eric, of 1979. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Just_One_Night_%28Eric_Clapton_album%29

Why is not mentioned?

Regards,

Emiliano.

Date correction - Eric plays with Bobby Whitlock on Jools show
It is very easy to document that Clapton re-united with Whitlock and played on this show several years earlier than the 2003 stated. April 25th was actual date with airing on 29th here is just one.

I believe just changing the date will ruin the timeline flow so some editing in the placement of this date would have to be done.

Torero80 (talk) 16:09, 4 November 2012 (UTC)torero80

eric clapton
I think the date of mr. clapton's birth needs to be changed. The main article says his birth year is 1946, on the side it says 1929. which would make him 83.. which is incorrect.. sorry.. I was shocked to see his age at 83.. ooops.. :)Wonder if it could be changed? I am sure he would not want to be born in 1929.... :) — Preceding unsigned comment added by 74.105.226.60 (talk) 02:44, 13 December 2012 (UTC)

Slowhand nickname
Second paragraph says:

"In his one-year stay with Mayall, Clapton gained the nickname "Slowhand".

I guess this is not true. In the presentation of "Five Live Yarbirds" they introduce Clapton as Eric "Slowhand" Clapton, and this is before Clapton joined Mayall's Bluesbreakers.

I think that mention should be modified or deleted.

Thank you.

77.27.215.84 (talk) 10:02, 27 January 2013 (UTC)

Actually, note 18 confirms that the nickname comes from Yardbirds' time.

77.27.215.84 (talk) 10:06, 27 January 2013 (UTC)

details about eric clapton
I dont know if its relevant but should we probably mention somewherer that his painting of german artist Gerhard Richter sold for 34,2 million $ ? and I think claprton sold about 60 -70 million records i once saw in an article? Would you be interested in editing the article I could check up some sources. So please let meknow then !Willy993 (talk) 19:47, 16 March 2013 (UTC)

"Clapton is god"
Does anyone knows in which book have been published the picture "Clapton is God, Arvon Road n°5", Thank you ~ ~ ~ ~

Time To Restructure
The page needs improvement and restructuring. At least, there needs to be a Personal Life section. I will add that. Editors can move content from other sections and add content to that section. Codwiki (talk) 14:43, 14 April 2013 (UTC)


 * Clapton? Pianoplayer? Please give a source on that.. I have never heard/Seen/read anything about him playing the Piano:: — Preceding unsigned comment added by 85.226.112.98 (talk) 19:42, 26 May 2013 (UTC)


 * Where do you see "piano player"? Might have been deleted already. For that matter, how many times has Clapton actually played the Mandolin on records - once? Why is this listed as an instrument he is known for? Ckruschke (talk) 16:41, 29 May 2013 (UTC)Ckruschke

Alicia Witt
Alicia Witt posted on Facebook that she has never dated, nor even met, Eric Clapton. https://www.facebook.com/officialaliciawitt/posts/479433842104199 Tamilovesnoles (talk) 13:12, 2 September 2013 (UTC)


 * Removed her name from the list of loves pending conclusion of this thread discussion. Ckruschke (talk) 18:16, 3 September 2013 (UTC)Ckruschke

Gossip about women
I removed the paragraph listing the various girlfriends that Clapton has been known for. The paragraph was added by some IP user in San Diego, California, on 9 May 2011 [//en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Eric_Clapton&diff=428319709&oldid=428033853 with this edit] which was 'supported' by a fake reference to the Boston Beacon article "Eric Clapton Talks". A few minutes later the IP editor [//en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Eric_Clapton&diff=next&oldid=428320058 changed] the reference to the Boston Globe, but it was no closer to being real, since the Boston Globe never printed any article by this name, and did not write about Clapton at all on that date.

If somebody wants to put together another list of Clapton's dalliances, it had better be accompanied by iron references. All the biographies say he has been a womanizer, so let's not whitewash the article. Binksternet (talk) 05:41, 19 December 2013 (UTC)


 * Thank you for being vigilant in removing an improperly cited reference from this article. With all due respect, however, you need to refrain from providing an op-ed on Eric Clapton's relationships with women, as you have no real knowledge about their nature or status. In fact only Eric Clapton himself would be fully cognizant of these women's effect on his life, and I seriously doubt he spoke with you recently or ever about such events, as you are not friends with him, nor have you ever met him. Referring to his relationships with women he has chosen to become involved with as dalliances and crudely referring to Eric Clapton as a womanizer is both inappropriate and unprofessional. Please try to show some respect for the subject of this biography, and stick to the professional tenants of Wikipedia editing. Remember that the talk page is a forum for improving the attached article, not a venue to express your personal opinion or orate from your soapbox. — Preceding unsigned comment added by 174.77.220.178 (talk) 17:59, 18 February 2014 (UTC)


 * Binksternet is simply saying that anyone who wants to write a section on Claptons "girlfriends", needs to include proper referencing. No more, no less. Ckruschke (talk) 19:56, 18 February 2014 (UTC)Ckruschke


 * As this is a wp:BLP, let's make that ultra proper referencing. - DVdm (talk) 19:59, 18 February 2014 (UTC)


 * The reference fabrication by IP 209.129.16.5 was from someone in San Diego, because the IP is registered to the San Diego Community College District. I note that the above comment from IP 174.77.220.178 is also from someone who geolocates to San Diego. We need to be extra vigilant about poor sourcing. Binksternet (talk) 20:15, 18 February 2014 (UTC)


 * The IP editor who was perpetrating a hoax here is described in more detail at Long-term abuse/Geraldine Edwards hoax from San Diego. Thank you. Binksternet (talk) 05:28, 25 January 2015 (UTC)

Rush soundtrack studio album
Shifting ip 62.98.*.* has removed the entry Rush from the Solo studio albums section with the summary stating that it be a soundtrack album:, , , , ,. I see no reason why a soundtrack album would not be a studio album, and there seems to be a consensus that it indeed belongs in this list, as the removal was reverted by users, , and myself. So I have added it again with a little footnote. I hope this will satisfy everyone. If not, please discuss here. - DVdm (talk) 08:28, 7 March 2014 (UTC)
 * Sounds good to me. Ckruschke (talk) 16:30, 7 March 2014 (UTC)Ckruschke
 * Clearly against consensus now has made a 7th revert: . I filed an edit warring report. - DVdm (talk) 19:37, 7 March 2014 (UTC)
 * I would like to ask a question about Wikipedia's standards on this. I understand that most soundtrack albums include songs from multiple artists and should not be included in Studio Albums. However, this album only contains EC songs. Does that change where we should categorize it?Bob Caldwell CSL (talk) 19:48, 7 March 2014 (UTC)


 * This album not contains only EC songs but contains also Buddy Guy song.


 * Soundtrack albums Eric Clapton


 * {|class="wikitable" style="text-align:center;"

!Year !Album !Ref. !Song (Performed and/or written) !Ref.
 * rowspan="2"|1985
 * style="text-align:left;"|Back to the Future: Music from the Motion Picture Soundtrack
 * style="text-align:left;"|"Heaven Is One Step Away"
 * style="text-align:left;"|Edge of Darkness
 * style="text-align:left;"|"Edge of Darkness"
 * 1986
 * style="text-align:left;"|The Color of Money
 * style="text-align:left;"|"It's In The Way That You Use It"
 * 1987
 * style="text-align:left;"|Lethal Weapon
 * style="text-align:left;"|not credited
 * 1988
 * style="text-align:left;"|Homeboy
 * style="text-align:left;"|not credited
 * 1989
 * style="text-align:left;"|Lethal Weapon 2
 * style="text-align:left;"|not credited
 * 1991
 * style="text-align:left;"|Rush
 * style="text-align:left;"|"Tears in Heaven", "Help Me Up", "Don't Know Which Way To Go"
 * 1992
 * style="text-align:left;"|Lethal Weapon 3
 * style="text-align:left;"|"It's Probably Me" with Sting, "Runaway Train" with Elton John
 * 1992
 * style="text-align:left;"|Wayne's World
 * style="text-align:left;"|"Loving Your Lovin'"
 * 1996
 * style="text-align:left;"|Phenomenon: Music From The Motion Picture
 * style="text-align:left;"|"Change the World"
 * 1998
 * style="text-align:left;"|Lethal Weapon 4
 * style="text-align:left;"|"Pilgrim"
 * 1999
 * style="text-align:left;"|The Story of Us
 * style="text-align:left;"|"I Get Lost", "Wonderful Tonight"
 * }
 * 1991
 * style="text-align:left;"|Rush
 * style="text-align:left;"|"Tears in Heaven", "Help Me Up", "Don't Know Which Way To Go"
 * 1992
 * style="text-align:left;"|Lethal Weapon 3
 * style="text-align:left;"|"It's Probably Me" with Sting, "Runaway Train" with Elton John
 * 1992
 * style="text-align:left;"|Wayne's World
 * style="text-align:left;"|"Loving Your Lovin'"
 * 1996
 * style="text-align:left;"|Phenomenon: Music From The Motion Picture
 * style="text-align:left;"|"Change the World"
 * 1998
 * style="text-align:left;"|Lethal Weapon 4
 * style="text-align:left;"|"Pilgrim"
 * 1999
 * style="text-align:left;"|The Story of Us
 * style="text-align:left;"|"I Get Lost", "Wonderful Tonight"
 * }
 * style="text-align:left;"|Phenomenon: Music From The Motion Picture
 * style="text-align:left;"|"Change the World"
 * 1998
 * style="text-align:left;"|Lethal Weapon 4
 * style="text-align:left;"|"Pilgrim"
 * 1999
 * style="text-align:left;"|The Story of Us
 * style="text-align:left;"|"I Get Lost", "Wonderful Tonight"
 * }
 * 1999
 * style="text-align:left;"|The Story of Us
 * style="text-align:left;"|"I Get Lost", "Wonderful Tonight"
 * }
 * style="text-align:left;"|"I Get Lost", "Wonderful Tonight"
 * }
 * }
 * }


 * 23:40, 7 March 2014 (UTC) — Preceding unsigned comment added by 62.98.80.86 (talk)


 * Glad to see that you finally found your way to the talk page. Please don't forget to sign your talk page messages with four tildes ( ~ ) and use proper indentation. Thanks.
 * I don't really care where we (should) categorize it. The only important thing is that there's no edit warring over it. - DVdm (talk) 09:39, 8 March 2014 (UTC)
 * I agree there should not be an edit war (and I have not been involved), but I would still like an answer to my question above. It is not a typical soundtrack album in that it is by a single artist of new material. It has no soundtrack filler, but is filled with complete songs. True there is one guest track, but that happens on studio albums as well. Under Wikipedia guidelines, could this be considered a studio album? Or does it being called a soundtrack automatically relegate it to another category? — Preceding unsigned comment added by Bob Caldwell CSL (talk • contribs) 14:14, 10 March 2014 (UTC)
 * I can't answer that question. Ultimately it is wp:consensus here on this talk page that de-facto decides how this particular album will be categorised. For me it is a non-issue, and I don't really care about categories. - DVdm (talk) 14:25, 10 March 2014 (UTC)
 * This album was released in the studio and consists of previously unreleased songs, written and performed by Eric Clapton (bar a couple of covers and a guest appearance by Buddy Guy). It is thus a regular studio album, and it does not matter whether these songs were written for a movie or not.JPGR69 (talk) 09:54, 9 March 2014 (UTC)

Why aren't the allegations of racism featured in the lede ?
Hello all. Now, although I've been on Wikipedia for many years now, I've not had any involvement in this page; and nor, for that matter, do I have any real interest in the music of Eric Clapton. However, I thought it unusual that there was no mention of Clapton's very controversial right-wing, anti-immigration political views in the lede, which have led to repeated accusations of racism being made against him over the years. I mean, by no means am I saying that the lede should actually begin with "Clapton is an English musician, singer and songwriter, and anti-immigration activist", but nevertheless, I think a brief mention is worthy of inclusion in the lede paragraphs; perhaps at the end of the third paragraph. This is particularly true as the Wikipedia Manual of Style asserts that ledes should be "a concise overview. It should define the topic, establish context, explain why the topic is notable, and summarize the most important points—including any prominent controversies." Best, Midnightblueowl (talk) 13:42, 19 April 2014 (UTC)


 * "There's no way I could be a racist. It would make no sense". I don't think it is wp:DUE for the lead in a wp:BLP. - DVdm (talk) 13:51, 19 April 2014 (UTC)


 * I'm not stating that the lede should say "Clapton is a racist". What we should say is "Clapton has expressed strong anti-immigration views, and has been accused of racism." That Clapton doesn't like being called a racist, and doesn't consider himself to be one, doesn't change the fact that his words have widely been interpreted as racist, and that he has been accused of being such as a result. Indeed, scholars operating in racism studies have long recognised that most of those who hold or express concepts that can analytically be described as racist do not actually like to be labelled racist and do not consider themselves to be racist. But I digress... Can we get some further opinions ? Midnightblueowl (talk) 14:03, 19 April 2014 (UTC)


 * Of course, if many such scholars operating in racism studies wrote and write that Clapton is a racist, then indeed perhaps it could (or even should) be mentioned in the lead. But here, no, I don't think so. - DVdm (talk) 14:09, 19 April 2014 (UTC)


 * Celebrities routinely do things that stir up controversy and get them called names in the press. There is already a section about it in the article body. However, the lead should be a summary of the most important aspects of the subject's life and career. This is a drop in the pan, really. Not lead-worthy at all. --Spike Wilbury (talk) 13:56, 19 April 2014 (UTC)
 * I don't think it needs to be mentioned in the first paragraph because I don't think it is an important part of his life. Lysergic Casserole (talk) 01:13, 19 August 2014 (UTC)

Racism, not immigration
If Eric would've said: "we should close the borders permanently" then there would not be a controversy. His remarks that deal with actual immigration were not the problem, the fact that he said a lot of racist stuff is the problem. A fan has reverted me so I figured I should point this out. The controversy is not about his ideas about immigration policy, the controversy is about alleged racism. Wikipedia is not censored. Many racists claim to be concerned about immigration, but that is a completely separate subject. Lysergic Casserole (talk) 20:06, 18 August 2014 (UTC)


 * I reverted your heading change. I did it, not as a fan but as a believer in encyclopedia neutrality. The comments stand on their own. People can form their own opinions as to their significance. What is factual is that there was a controversy over his remarks. Everyone will not agree that he exhibits racism. That's all. Bob Caldwell CSL (talk) 13:41, 19 August 2014 (UTC)
 * I think your new heading is acceptable. Race does seem to be the issue in his remarks, not primarily immigration. I might prefer something like "Controversy over remarks on race" but I certainly wouldn't quibble over that. BTW, the angry tone in your remarks was really not necessary. We can discuss this in a civil manner. Bob Caldwell CSL (talk) 13:47, 19 August 2014 (UTC)
 * Quibbling is boring. Please check my latest edit (on this article). I have tried to fix the problem with the partial quotes. So I replaced "I think Enoch's right ... we should send them all back. Throw the wogs out! Keep Britain white!" with "I think Enoch's right, I think we should send them all back. Stop Britain from becoming a black colony. Get the foreigners out. Get the wogs out. Get the coons out. Keep Britain white.", and I included the bit about his wife's bum being grabbed because it seems relevant. Lysergic Casserole (talk) 17:28, 19 August 2014 (UTC)

Proposed structure change
I'd like to make change in this page, but it's quite a big change, so I thought I'd discuss it here first. I think it would be better to create a Heading called "Career", and move several of the current headings as sub-headings of "Career". See a page like Bruce Springsteen for a similar arrangement. So, the final heading structure would be (only 3 levels shown):

Intro 1 Career 1.1 Early life 1.2 Early career, breakthrough, and international success 1.3 "Layla" and solo career 1.4 Continued success 1.5 Resurgence and stardom 1.6 Collaboration albums 1.7 Clapton, Old Sock and recent events 2 Influences 3 Legacy 4 Guitars 5 Woman tone 6 Other media appearances 7 Personal life 8 Awards and honours 9 Football 10 Clapton's music in film and TV   11 Discography 12 References 13 Further reading 14 External links

Of course, this could also be improved later: a) including year ranges in the subsections, like on the Springsteen page; and b) further grouping the other topics (under "Style", etc.), but that's a different edit.

So, what does everybody think about the creation of the "Career" heading as proposed? Thanks in advance for your input. Callmepgr (talk) 11:57, 22 October 2014 (UTC)
 * Not opposing, it sounds good to me, but wouldn't "Early life" go before Career? -- Cubs Fan   (Talk to me)  17:25, 23 October 2014 (UTC)
 * Agreed... looking at the Bruce Springsteen page, that's how it is there.Callmepgr (talk) 18:25, 23 October 2014 (UTC)

I totally agree. Following format of Springsteen's page also makes sense. ReginaldTQ (talk) 22:09, 27 January 2015 (UTC)

Guitars used for woman tone
Clapton created the so-called "woman tone" with both a Gibson Les Paul and an SG. He used Les Pauls during his early career with Cream: "Clapton's 'Beano' Gibson Les Paul Standard was stolen during Cream's early rehearsals. To record the group's first album, Fresh Cream, he borrowed another sunburst Les Paul ... He borrowed a third late-'50s sunburst Les Paul from Andy Summers ... Eventually, he purchased the guitar from Summers; some reports say that this guitar was also stolen in 1967. In 1968, Clapton was photographed playing yet another sunburst Les Paul at Cream concerts.[Guitar Tone by Mitch Gallagher]"

Several photos of Cream from 1966 show him playing a Les Paul.[Slowhand by Marc Roberty]

Later, in early 1967, the Fool, which was later identified as a 1964 Gibson SG, came into Clapton's possession.[Gallagher] [Clapton's Fool by J. Craig Oxman]. He first played it in concert March 25, 1967, in New York City.[Oxman] "Clapton’s Fool was his principal guitar for most of the work that followed Fresh Cream. The ensuing albums, including Cream’s Disraeli Gears, the world’s-first platinum double album, Wheels of Fire, and Goodbye, are infused with the sounds of The Fool ... He used The Fool regularly, though less exclusively, until the end of Cream in November ’68.[Oxman]"

"In an interview in the August ’67 issue of Beat Instrumental, Clapton described his style and tone, saying "I am playing more smoothly now. I’m developing what I call my 'woman tone.' It’s a sweet sound, something like the solo on 'I Feel Free'."[Oxman] Gallagher also cites "I Feel Free" as a "great example" of the woman tone and writes "Clapton began developing and refining this sound initially on his Les Paul, but it did not reach full flower until he switched to The Fool." Gallagher identifies "The opening riff and solo of “Sunshine of Your Love” are arguably the best illustrations of full-blown woman tone" and Oxman uses the song as another great example.

Propose to reword the Woman tone section to reflect the above. —Ojorojo (talk) 17:00, 30 April 2015 (UTC)


 * Agreed. In this connection: https://www.youtube.com/watch?t=118&v=p4vxOoSS5RY. Clapton demonstrating Woman Tone, on The Fool. Solicitr (talk) 21:53, 30 April 2015 (UTC)

Trimmed infobox
I've trimmed down a couple of sections in the infobox. The instructions on Template:Infobox musical artist say that genres should be kept general. The associated acts field was an uninformative data dump, so I trimmed it down to something a bit more representative. --Nicknack009 (talk) 11:01, 25 May 2015 (UTC)

"Singer-songwriter" and other changes
Reverted some changes this morning. Main point is that Clapton is not a "singer-songwriter". A singer-songwriter is someone who performs exclusively or almost exclusively their own material. Clapton's repertoire contains as many songs written by others as by himself - he's done whole albums and tours of classic blues material, for example - and some of his biggest hits - Cocaine, I Shot the Sheriff - were written by other people.

Other changes reverted: restored blues and rock genres in lead (these are basic facts that need to be presented up front); removed "blues rock" from infobox as redundant; removed John Mayer from "associated acts" as his only association is playing at the Crossroads concert; restore The Dirty Mac as he was an actual member of this notable if short-lived act; restored the "British rhythm and blues boom musicians" category, as the "English rhythm and blues boom musicians" category is a soft redirect. I've also reverted the make and model of the individual guitars in the infobox as I think this is probably excessive and can be found out by following the links, but would be prepared to put these back in if there's agreement. --Nicknack009 (talk) 10:02, 6 June 2015 (UTC)
 * Good job cleaning up the infobox mess. According to MOS:INFOBOX,
 * "When considering any aspect of infobox design, keep in mind the purpose of an infobox: to summarize key facts that appear in the article. The less information it contains, the more effectively it serves that purpose, allowing readers to identify key facts at a glance. Of necessity, some infoboxes contain more than just a few fields; however, wherever possible, present information in short form, and exclude any unnecessary content." (Emphasis added).
 * Template:Infobox musical artist instructions include for "genre": "Aim for generality ... and preferably use 2-4."  Rock and blues cover Clapton's main genres; any others are of secondary importance.    Similarly, "associated acts" include "For individuals: groups of which he or she has been a member" and "Other acts with which this act has collaborated on multiple occasions, or on an album, or toured with as a single collaboration act playing together".  Again, this should reflect key acts: Free Creek (not mentioned in Clapton's autobiography or other major bios), if real, is very minor one-shot jam recording.  Similarly, it may be argued that Powerhouse and Dirty Mac were impromptu get-togethers that recorded once and never toured.  The "Notable instruments" field section doesn't include the Les Paul which is mentioned several times in the "Guitars" section, while the Telecaster and ES-335 are mentioned less, however they are in the infobox field.  I think "less is more" is important when presenting infographics. —Ojorojo (talk) 13:16, 6 June 2015 (UTC)


 * I agree that the trim of associated acts could go further, and Free Creek, Powerhouse and The Dirty Mac could be removed - as could the Plastic Ono Band. They stayed in according to the rationale I used when doing my original trim - bands that he was a member of, and artists he has recorded albums with - but that could certainly be finessed. I also agree the notable instruments section needs work. I am aware that Clapton played a Telecaster early in his career, prior to the Bluesbreakers, but is that really notable, and the Les Paul isn't? Do we really need to include two different Stratocasters? I'd be inclined to just have one entry for Fender Stratocaster, but if we do include Blackie and Brownie separately, what about the Fender Custom Shop signature strat? --Nicknack009 (talk) 14:18, 6 June 2015 (UTC)


 * I've made the cuts from the associated acts, and rearranged the instruments. --Nicknack009 (talk) 14:41, 6 June 2015 (UTC)


 * Thanks for keeping such good track of this article. The socks of continue to be interested in fussing with it. Binksternet (talk) 14:25, 6 June 2015 (UTC)

"Beliefs" section
This section is problematic for a few reasons. It's written ungrammatically in places, there are a few sentences that come word for word from the Real Life Stories site cited, and the reliability of that site is uncertain. It implies that Delaney and Bonnie were Christians and influenced Clapton to become a Christian, and he wrote "Presence of the Lord" for Blind Faith as a "thank you" to God and his Christian friends for helping him get off drugs. This is chronologically backwards, as he didn't join Delaney and Bonnie until after he left Blind Faith, and didn't get off drugs until after his next band, Derek and the Dominos, broke up. Clapton, as far as I can tell, believes in a god of some sort - he's said as much - but he's more reticient about the specifics of his religious beliefs, which don't seem to be unambigiously Christian. This is a BLP, so it needs to be accurate and well-sourced. The bits sourced to his autobiography seem solid enough, but the Real Life Stories stuff isn't. I'll remove that bit and see if we can come up with anything better. --Nicknack009 (talk) 11:01, 10 July 2015 (UTC)


 * While I was writing that, the whole section was removed again. I think this is excessive, but hopefully some discussion will ensue. --Nicknack009 (talk) 11:02, 10 July 2015 (UTC)

The source not want to tell that ""It implies that Delaney and Bonnie were Christians and influenced Clapton to become a Christian, and he wrote "Presence of the Lord" for Blind Faith as a "thank you" to God and his Christian friends for helping him get off drugs."" i fact even don't mention that Clapton want to leave the drugs. — Preceding unsigned comment added by Josue10rfu15 (talk • contribs) 08:17, 24 September 2015 (UTC)


 * But that's what the source said, which makes it unreliable. If we want to have a section on Clapton's religious beliefs, it needs to be based on reliable sources. --Nicknack009 (talk) 09:16, 24 September 2015 (UTC)

Marshbrook holding company
Why, in the text "his Marshbrook holding company", is Marshbrook linked to the Shropshire village? It (the village) has no Claptonian connection, has it? 109.149.212.87 (talk) 18:09, 22 August 2015 (UTC)

External links modified
Hello fellow Wikipedians,

I have just added archive links to 6 one external links on Eric Clapton. Please take a moment to review my edit. If necessary, add after the link to keep me from modifying it. Alternatively, you can add to keep me off the page altogether. I made the following changes:
 * Added archive https://web.archive.org/20070927042854/http://uweekly.com/cowtown/?p=121 to http://uweekly.com/cowtown/?p=121
 * Added archive https://web.archive.org/20090716053139/http://www.xs4all.nl:80/~slowhand/ecfaq/Le%20Paul.htm to http://www.xs4all.nl/~slowhand/ecfaq/Le%20Paul.htm
 * Added archive https://web.archive.org/20090823121845/http://www.xs4all.nl:80/~slowhand/ecfaq/guitars.html to http://www.xs4all.nl/~slowhand/ecfaq/guitars.html
 * Added archive https://web.archive.org/20090715090305/http://www.rollingstone.com:80/artists/ericclapton/articles/story/8928554/rock_memorabilia_market_booms to http://www.rollingstone.com/artists/ericclapton/articles/story/8928554/rock_memorabilia_market_booms
 * Added archive https://web.archive.org/20130829061757/http://www.christies.com/promos/jun04/claptonGuitars/overview.asp to http://www.christies.com/promos/jun04/claptonGuitars/overview.asp
 * Added archive https://web.archive.org/20131005001139/http://www.treatmentalternatives.com/rock-n-roll-doesnt-die-after-kicking-the-habit/ to http://www.treatmentalternatives.com/rock-n-roll-doesnt-die-after-kicking-the-habit/

When you have finished reviewing my changes, please set the checked parameter below to true to let others know.

Cheers. —cyberbot II  Talk to my owner :Online 02:25, 26 August 2015 (UTC)

"Faith" section
I've removed this section again, because it's very tendentious. The bit about two Christians coming to his dressing room during the blind faith tour, and him seeing a "blinding light" is cited to his autobiography, and isn't there. The bit about declaring himself "a born-again Christian" and faith tinged with superstition is cited to an article on Christianity Today, a subscription-only website, so I can't confirm it. There is no reference to being a Christian, model of faith or otherwise, in the autobiography - there is in the truncated preview in the Christianity Today article, but that appears to be an editorial comment, not a claim of faith by Clapton at all.

The long quote about praying during and after his alcoholism treatment is in the autobiography, but not cited to the right page. But in the context of the tendentious stuff that precedes it, it looks like specifically Christian prayer, and that's not clear from the book. He also talks about writing the song "Holy Mother" as a plea to a "divine source, a female that I couldn't even begin to identify" (p. 237).

It's clear that Clapton has religious beliefs, but he's very cagey about what, specifically, they are. As this article is a BLP, we need to be careful. The section needs rewritten and properly sourced before it can go back in. --Nicknack009 (talk) 06:59, 21 September 2015 (UTC)


 * I'd add that, after googling "Eric Clapton religious beliefs", I've found lots of religious blogs trying to use that desperate prayer in the rehab centre as confirmation that Clapton shares the blogger's exact beliefs. But it may be no more than the "higher power" of the twelve-step program. --Nicknack009 (talk) 07:10, 21 September 2015 (UTC)

Transcript of a 2007 interview with Larry King on CNN:

Relevant exerpt:


 * KING: In the book you write, "Before my recovery began I had found my God in music and the arts."


 * Where do you find your God now?


 * CLAPTON: I find him at the bottom of my bed, usually. In the morning I get down on my knees and pray and at night... KING: You do?


 * CLAPTON: I do, yes. Yes. Yes. I've done that for a long time now. So I talk to him in the morning and I (INAUDIBLE).


 * KING: So you believe someone -


 * CLAPTON: ...him or her or whatever.


 * KING: ...or something is listening?


 * CLAPTON: Something or someone - yes. I have no - it's a complete abstract thing, but I believe that they are listening, yes. It's been my experience that most of the things I pray for eventually come my way.


 * KING: Really?


 * CLAPTON: Mm-hmm.


 * KING: And you pray for things?


 * CLAPTON: I pray for knowledge, really, of what I'm supposed to be doing on any given day, and for the ability to stay sober.

This certainly isn't born-again Christianity. --Nicknack009 (talk) 07:45, 21 September 2015 (UTC)